Millions of people are fascinated with the idea of looking for bargains at markets and antique shops. The allure of finding a truly unique historical specimen and selling it for a massive profit is a huge trend that developed in recent decades. One such story of success happened in Vienna back in 2011, when a 300-year-old skull was found in a small antique shop.
According to the Austrian store owner, this skull belonged to a man who provided medical assistance to Tibetan monks. The man’s teeth and skull were perfectly preserved, and his head was carved with various depictions of the macabre. The true origins of the skull remain a mystery, but it is still considered a precious and rare piece of history.
These Designs of Pepsi Cans Over the Years - Starting in 1948
Everyone knows Pepsi, the carbonated soft drink manufacturer that was founded in the late 19th century. The company is estimated to be worth almost $20 billion and is Coca-Cola's largest rival to date. There is perhaps no better example of the changes that have occurred throughout the history of design than the modifications done to the Pepsi can’s appearance.
Back in the 50s, the beverage company's designs included various patterns and designs, but these were clearly ditched over the last two decades in favor of a solid color and logo. Like the cars of the '50s, people were once a lot more attracted to two-color designs with complex patterns. But much less so today.
This Skeleton Rocking Chair, Made in Russia More Than 250 Years Ago
Handcrafted rocking chairs have been selling for hefty prices over the centuries, but we can’t really see ourselves buying this one for any price. Imagine walking into your date's home for the first time and seeing this in the living room. You'd turn yourself around and BOLT.
This macabre rocking chair is shaped like a human skeleton. It was originally carved in Russia during the late 19th century and remains intact to this day. Various replicas of the skeleton rocking chair are made and sold today at highly affordable prices. We only hope these have not been sold to anyone we know.
These Giant Japanese Crabs
Few newly discovered animals look as terrifying as this one. The Japanese spider crab can reach up to eighteen feet in length and weigh more than forty pounds. They quickly became a delicacy after being discovered by the nation that brought us sushi and anime.
The Japanese spider crabs have the longest leg span of any arthropod currently discovered on Earth. These creatures are far from extinct and tend to spend most of their time in underwater holes. Although it’s hard to have sympathy for something that looks like a horror movie monster, we’d like to note that their population is dwindling due to over-fishing.
The Tomb of Emperor Wen of Han
Who was this Emperor called Wen of Han, you ask, and why was he important? Well, he's a well-known figure in Chinese history. He reigned from 180 BC to 157 BC, and it is said that during his reign, China enjoyed both peace and prosperity. Now, no one really knew where he was buried.
But, researchers learned that a tomb they discovered back in 2006 belongs to no other than Emperor Wen himself. His tomb contained over 1000 small statues as well as bronze, iron, and pottery relics. This finding sealed the deal, and now researchers know where all Western Han emperors were buried.